I have traveled throughout Mexico over the last few years, but other than passing through the Mexico City airport as I made my way to other locations, this was my first time visiting the capitol city. With a full agenda of meetings with IPADE Business School, our co-host and venue for the upcoming GBSN conference, I was ready to brush up on my rusty Spanish and finalize plans.  

When I land in Mexico I am impressed with how clean, polished and modern the airport is. I am greeted by a driver who speaks perfect English and driven into the anticipated rush hour traffic to the conference hotel. Typically a twenty-minute drive, it took closer to forty minutes due to traffic. (However pleasantly surprised I am by other things, I can confirm traffic is as bad as everyone claims). My driver informs me during our drive that the Presidente InterContinental Hotel is very nice, and is in fact, where President Obama recently stayed during his visit. Wondering if perhaps I would get a tour of the Presidential Suite during my official hotel tour I surveyed the massive city sprawling around me.

Some people are surprised we are hosting the GBSN Annual Conference in Mexico City. After my visit I now have a response: Whatever you thought, think again. This is going to be one of the most amazing conferences we have ever held.

Pleasant Surprise #1— A Peaceful Oasis
The campus of IPADE Business School is a peaceful oasis tucked away from the city. I was very impressed with the modern classrooms and facilities that annex to a former hacienda. Cobblestone pathways cover the campus, making walking a bit difficult but capturing the eclectic and historical importance of the site. Most impressively, pristine and peaceful gardens surround the buildings, making it a relaxing hideout from a fast paced city—and the perfect place for students to study for exams.

Join me on my monthly blog travel series how I was pleasantly surprised by Mexico City. Next Month: A Modern City Entrenched in Tradition

Lisa Leander, Member Services Officer